Côte d’Ivoire’s 83-year-old President Alassane Ouattara has announced his bid for a fourth term in the upcoming October 25 election, extending his already 13-year tenure. His candidacy was widely expected after his party, the Rally of Houphouëtists for Democracy and Peace, unreservedly backed him at a recent congress. With key opposition figures—former Credit Suisse CEO Tidjane Thiam and ex-president Laurent Gbagbo—barred from running, Ouattara faces a virtually unchallenged path to re-election. While supporters view his experience as essential for stability, critics warn that his continued rule may stifle democratic competition. The move sets the stage for a contentious political season in the world’s top cocoa producer.
Bloomberg
